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- Watlington & District Residential and Nursing Home

It's like being part of a familyPamela B(Resident / Service User)

Excellent food with a good choice on the menuDiana B(Resident / Service User)


It's like being part of a familyPamela B(Resident / Service User)

Excellent food with a good choice on the menuDiana B(Resident / Service User)


Watlington is a stunning home in a rural village, with spectacular gardens overlooking the Chiltern Hills. But it’s the outstanding CQC rated team (April 2019) and the care they provide which makes it special.
So many of the team, who provide residential, dementia, nursing, palliative and pre-bookable respite care, have been at Watlington for over 10 years.
They are passionate about getting to know who their residents are as unique...
Watlington is a stunning home in a rural village, with spectacular gardens overlooking the Chiltern Hills. But it’s the outstanding CQC rated team (April 2019) and the care they provide which makes it special.
So many of the team, who provide residential, dementia, nursing, palliative and pre-bookable respite care, have been at Watlington for over 10 years.
They are passionate about getting to know who their residents are as unique individuals, the things that matter most to them and bring them joy. And the loved ones of residents are very much embraced into life in the home, giving it a warm, family feel.
There are so many activities to enjoy, from trips out into the community in the home’s minibus, to music, baking, animal visits and games on the Magic Table. This is an amazing piece of technology where residents play interactive games together.
And the surroundings at Watlington are very special. The gardens, which include an orchard, water feature and magnificent lawns, go all the way around the home. The bedrooms and communal lounges and dining rooms have beautiful views of the gardens and surrounding countryside. And there are often Red Kites flying above.
There is a beautiful, light and airy orangery. And there are large lounges to relax in with family and friends, who are welcome to visit at any time.
The home also has a hairdressing salon, for regular appointments with a mobile hairdresser.
The residents enjoy delicious home-cooked meals in the dining room, with freshly baked cakes served every day with afternoon tea.
Run by not-for-profit Sanctuary Care, the home is situated close to local shops and restaurants and has a neighbouring GP surgery.
Care Provided by Watlington & District Residential and Nursing Home
Primary Care Categories
- Older Person Care
- Dementia
- Mental Health Condition
- Physical Disability
- Visual / Hearing Impairment
Length of Stay
- Permanent Care
- Respite Care
Care Types Provided
- Residential Care
- Nursing Care
- Dementia Residential Care
- Dementia Nursing Care
- For a maximum of 60 Service Users
Dementia Care Types
- Mild Dementia
- Moderate Dementia
- Advanced/Complex Dementia
Facilities
- Lift
- Phone Point in own room
- Television point in own room
Funding & Fees
Weekly Charges per Person
Contact Watlington & District Residential and Nursing Home to confirm what's included and get a personalised quote:
Our weekly fees are individual to each of our residents and are subject to a pre-admission assessment, which is required to understand the level of care and support needed. Our 2026 weekly care fees for residential care start from £1554 and for nursing care £2156, but may be in the region of 30% more*. This depends on your care needs and the type of bedroom that is right for you, from our standard rooms through to our premium bedroom options.
*If you require more specialist care such as 1-2-1 support, your weekly fee could be higher.
The price(s) shown are provided by the care home. Contact Watlington & District Residential and Nursing Home for full pricing details and T&Cs.
Funding Types Accepted
- Self-Funding (Private)
- Local Authority with Top-up
- Local Authority
- NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC)
Support you may be entitled to
- If you choose a care home based in England, you may be eligible for NHS Funded Nursing Care (FNC), which helps cover the cost of nursing. This is worth £267.68 per week and is usually paid directly to the care home.
Good to Know
Group / Owner
- Sanctuary Care Ltd
- Voluntary / Not for Profit Owned
Person in charge
- Julie Cooper (Manager)
Local Authority / Social Services
Admission Information
- Ages 65+
Care Home Design/Build
- Purpose Built: Yes
Room Information
- Single Rooms (60)
Watlington & District Residential and Nursing Home Reviews (164)
Watlington & District Residential and Nursing Home has a Review Score of 9.9 (9.927) out of 10, based on 48 reviews in the last 2 years.
Over all time Watlington & District Residential and Nursing Home has 164 reviews.
My father was treated with care and dignity at Watlington care home. He enjoyed the many communal activities, and particularly liked the gardens during the summer. The carers were patient and gentle, and the home itself was clean and smart.
My father was treated with care and dignity at Watlington care home. He enjoyed the many communal activities, and particularly liked the gardens during the summer. The carers were patient and gentle, and the home itself was clean and smart.
Thank you for your kind words about our team at Watlington. We're delighted to hear that your father was so well cared for and enjoyed the activities and beautiful gardens. Our team takes great pride in providing outstanding care and your feedback will mean a lot to them, thank you.
My cousin has been at Watlington Care Home for around two years now and I cannot praise it enough. From the moment I walk through the door, I'm always met with a warm welcome, and it truly feels like a place where we're valued as family. The staff are consistently friendly, approachable, and...
My cousin has been at Watlington Care Home for around two years now and I cannot praise it enough. From the moment I walk through the door, I'm always met with a warm welcome, and it truly feels like a place where we're valued as family. The staff are consistently friendly, approachable, and incredibly helpful. They always make me feel encouraged to help myself to a cup of tea, join in with the activities and even stay for lunch if I wish which only costs £3 for two courses. The home itself is immaculate, always spotless, and fresh smelling. It's clear that cleanliness is a top priority. The level of care my cousin receives is outstanding, and it's reassuring to know they are in such capable and compassionate hands. I am so grateful for everything this home provides, and it gives me peace of mind knowing my cousin is so well looked after and is very happy.
Thank you for your heartfelt review, the team at Watlington will be so pleased to read your kind words. It's wonderful to hear that you feel so welcomed and valued whenever you visit. We take great pride in creating a warm, family-like atmosphere and ensuring both residents and their loved ones...
Thank you for your heartfelt review, the team at Watlington will be so pleased to read your kind words. It's wonderful to hear that you feel so welcomed and valued whenever you visit. We take great pride in creating a warm, family-like atmosphere and ensuring both residents and their loved ones feel at home. We're delighted that your cousin is happy and so well looked after, and we truly appreciate your feedback.
I volunteer for a couple of hours once a week at Watlington, and I continue to be amazed at the level of care experienced by the residents. The staff have total understanding of the needs of all the residents, and can tell me instantly who would appreciate my company, whether it be being read to,...
I volunteer for a couple of hours once a week at Watlington, and I continue to be amazed at the level of care experienced by the residents. The staff have total understanding of the needs of all the residents, and can tell me instantly who would appreciate my company, whether it be being read to, or listening to music, or simply having a chat! The residents, without exception, always tell me how lovely the staff are and how well they are looked after. I hear about winning quizzes, listening to a visiting pianist, and how they can't wait for the good weather so they can go outside and enjoy the beautiful garden! I think they're busier than I am!
Thank you so much for your kind words and for dedicating your time to volunteering at Watlington. It's wonderful to hear how much you enjoy your visits and how engaged our residents are in such meaningful experiences. Our team takes great pride in creating a warm and stimulating environment, and it's wonderful to know their efforts are appreciated, thank you.
I have been visiting Sanctuary Care Home since April last year as a regular, weekly volunteer. The residents are looked after really kindly with gentleness and concern whilst maintaining a professional attitude. The residents tell me how lovely the staff are and they clearly love living there....
I have been visiting Sanctuary Care Home since April last year as a regular, weekly volunteer. The residents are looked after really kindly with gentleness and concern whilst maintaining a professional attitude. The residents tell me how lovely the staff are and they clearly love living there. There are plenty of a variety of activities organised for all tastes and everyone is encouraged to join in. This is a real 'home from home' with all the nursing care provided.
Thank you so much for your kind words and for taking the time to share your experience as a volunteer. We truly appreciate your dedication and the positive impact you have on our residents at Watlington. It's wonderful to hear how much they enjoy living here and value our team's care and support....
Thank you so much for your kind words and for taking the time to share your experience as a volunteer. We truly appreciate your dedication and the positive impact you have on our residents at Watlington. It's wonderful to hear how much they enjoy living here and value our team's care and support. We're also delighted that the variety of activities we offer is being enjoyed by everyone. Thank you again for being such an important part of our community.
My friend has been a resident at Watlington for about 5 years, her husband was also a resident here previously. I have visited her many times and can only speak highly of the care she has received from all the wonderful staff. From the lovely welcome you receive when you come through the door from...
My friend has been a resident at Watlington for about 5 years, her husband was also a resident here previously. I have visited her many times and can only speak highly of the care she has received from all the wonderful staff. From the lovely welcome you receive when you come through the door from the team at Reception, the Housekeeping team, Nurses and Care staff are always very friendly and accommodating. I was very pleased that my friend came to this home as it really is a home from home. Great food, always clean and well maintained and a great management team.
Thank you so much for your thoughtful and detailed review, the team at Watlington will be touched to read your kind words. We're delighted to hear that your friend has received such wonderful care from every single member of the team, from reception and housekeeping, to our nurses and care staff....
Thank you so much for your thoughtful and detailed review, the team at Watlington will be touched to read your kind words. We're delighted to hear that your friend has received such wonderful care from every single member of the team, from reception and housekeeping, to our nurses and care staff. We're also happy that the atmosphere, home-cooked food, and environment have all contributed to a comfortable, 'home from home' experience.
My uncle entered the Watlington Residential and Nursing Home last year. He has complex health issues but was extremely independent before a long illness made full-time care necessary. We didn't expect his transition from independent living to be easy but both staff and management have gone beyond...
My uncle entered the Watlington Residential and Nursing Home last year. He has complex health issues but was extremely independent before a long illness made full-time care necessary. We didn't expect his transition from independent living to be easy but both staff and management have gone beyond the call of duty to make him - and us, as his family - feel at home. The staff on reception are brilliant, professional and a total delight to deal with while the nursing and care staff are every bit as attentive, respectful, kind and knowledgeable as you could hope for. Meanwhile the home itself is immaculately clean, beautiful and well-maintained as well as comfortable. The food is also exceptionally good, varied and nutritionally balanced. All of this plus regular entertainment, therapy dog visits, thoughtful personal touches and organised activities make the Watlington the kind of nursing and residential home, I wish everyone who needs one, had access to. Superb in every way.
Thank you for sharing such a detailed and glowing review. We're so pleased to hear how well your uncle has settled in and that both he and your family feel so at home. It's wonderful to know that our staff in every area of the home have provided the attentive and compassionate support he deserves....
Thank you for sharing such a detailed and glowing review. We're so pleased to hear how well your uncle has settled in and that both he and your family feel so at home. It's wonderful to know that our staff in every area of the home have provided the attentive and compassionate support he deserves. Your kind words about the cleanliness, comfort, home-cooked food, and activities will be greatly appreciated. We're proud to be part of your uncle's care journey. Thank you again for your heartfelt feedback.
My wife, who suffers from Alzheimer's, joined the Watlington & District Residential and Nursing Home family at the beginning of November 2024. She is extremely independent and can be difficult. The staff are wonderfully tolerant, very friendly and above all very professional, all of which is...
I have received regular updates on my wife's progress, which has helped me enormously in this transition period. She tells me how nice it is there and how nice the food is. I really cannot praise the staff and management team enough for the outstanding Job they are doing.
Thank you for your heartfelt review of Watlington. We're delighted to hear that your wife is settling in well and appreciates the environment and home cooked food. Our dedicated team strive to provide outstanding care, especially during such significant transitions and it is wonderful to hear this...
Thank you for your heartfelt review of Watlington. We're delighted to hear that your wife is settling in well and appreciates the environment and home cooked food. Our dedicated team strive to provide outstanding care, especially during such significant transitions and it is wonderful to hear this has made such a difference. Supporting loved ones is so very important to them as they know how hard this can be for families. Thank you for entrusting us with your wife's care and for your kind words of support.
My Mum was admitted July 2023, and is now settled on the dementia ward. The Manager and Deputy Manager were very supportive and helpful from the start and all other members of staff have proved to be extremely caring and encouraging in dealing with my Mum. If there are any issues or matters that...
My Mum was admitted July 2023, and is now settled on the dementia ward. The Manager and Deputy Manager were very supportive and helpful from the start and all other members of staff have proved to be extremely caring and encouraging in dealing with my Mum. If there are any issues or matters that need my attention they are very quick in contacting me. The home has a very warm and welcoming feel and I feel confident my Mum is in the best place she can be.
Thank you for your kind words and for sharing your experience with us. We're so pleased to hear that your mum has settled well at Watlington and that you feel supported by our team. Knowing that our staff's care and communication have given you peace of mind means a great deal to us, especially as...
Thank you for your kind words and for sharing your experience with us. We're so pleased to hear that your mum has settled well at Watlington and that you feel supported by our team. Knowing that our staff's care and communication have given you peace of mind means a great deal to us, especially as we strive to create a warm, welcoming environment for every resident. Your confidence in our care is truly appreciated, and we're here to continue providing the compassion and attention that make a difference. Thank you again for your thoughtful feedback-it means so much to all of us at Watlington.
This care home is wonderful. Fresh, clean, warm, inviting. The security system is excellent. All of the staff are friendly, professional and caring. Doing a very difficult job. Meals and all food is very well prepared. The residents sometimes complex and challenging needs are all met by the very...
I feel very fortunate that we were lucky enough to get a place here for our mother.
I would recommend this home 100%.
Thank you to all members of the team for all you do.
Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback for Watlington. We're thrilled to hear that you feel the care home is so warm and inviting. It means so much to hear that the professionalism and care of the team makes such a difference. We're truly grateful for your recommendation and kind words, thank you for your support.
My husband has only been a resident for 1 month but seems to have settled in well thanks to the staff who are all so caring, kind and considerate. When I visit it always feels very welcoming and relaxed. I feel very lucky to have found Watlington as it seems to be an extremely well-run home.
My husband has only been a resident for 1 month but seems to have settled in well thanks to the staff who are all so caring, kind and considerate. When I visit it always feels very welcoming and relaxed. I feel very lucky to have found Watlington as it seems to be an extremely well-run home.
Thank you so much for your lovely review of Watlington. We're delighted to hear that your husband has settled in well and that you find the atmosphere so welcoming and relaxed. Our caring and dedicated staff take pride in ensuring all residents feel comfortable and supported. We're so glad you feel lucky to have found us, and we appreciate your kind words about our team's efforts.
Review of my mum very thorough. Discussed how she is during the day and night and any observations. Talked about my mum's medications. We are very happy with the care she receives and keeps well and happy. I feel she is stimulated by staff and residents with lots of activities and time to talk. My...
Review of my mum very thorough. Discussed how she is during the day and night and any observations. Talked about my mum's medications. We are very happy with the care she receives and keeps well and happy. I feel she is stimulated by staff and residents with lots of activities and time to talk. My mum says all are nice and very good and caring and she enjoys her days.
Thank you for sharing such wonderful feedback for Watlington. We are so pleased to hear that you're so happy with the care your mum is receiving. It's wonderful to read your comments about the activities and social interaction, as these are such important parts of life at Watlington. Your feedback is greatly appreciated and we will be sure to pass it on to the team, thank you.
All the staff are very welcoming and helpful. Any concerns they may have they don't hesitate to contact me. The home is local to me and very well thought of by people I know. My cousin is blind and not very mobile but the staff make sure he is included in various activities.
All the staff are very welcoming and helpful. Any concerns they may have they don't hesitate to contact me. The home is local to me and very well thought of by people I know. My cousin is blind and not very mobile but the staff make sure he is included in various activities.
Thank you so much for your kind words about our team at Watlington. We're delighted to hear that you've had a positive experience with our staff and that your cousin can enjoy taking part in all the activities. We will be sure to share your feedback thanks again.
From the initial visit, we felt reassured that Mum would be cared for in the final months of her life. All the staff were kind and caring. We visited Mum regularly and were always welcomed with a smile and an update on her day. I would highly recommend Watlington and District Residential and...
From the initial visit, we felt reassured that Mum would be cared for in the final months of her life. All the staff were kind and caring. We visited Mum regularly and were always welcomed with a smile and an update on her day. I would highly recommend Watlington and District Residential and Nursing Home.
Thank you for your heartfelt review. We are touched to hear that you felt reassured and supported during your mum's time with us. Our team at Watlington strive to provide compassionate care, and we are glad that you experienced this. Your recommendation means a lot to us.
It is always very difficult to place a loved one in a care home. My husband seems to have settled very well. I think that the reason is that the carers have been so kind and caring, as well as making him laugh and also listening to him. May it continue.
It is always very difficult to place a loved one in a care home. My husband seems to have settled very well. I think that the reason is that the carers have been so kind and caring, as well as making him laugh and also listening to him. May it continue.
Thank you for your review for Watlington, it is wonderful to hear how well your husband is settling in. The team are certainly very special indeed.
We received outstanding care of my sister during her time with them. From visiting the home early on to the care when my sister recently passed away was always excellent. The staff, management and other patients all made my sister's experience a positive one, despite the challenges of her illness....
We received outstanding care of my sister during her time with them. From visiting the home early on to the care when my sister recently passed away was always excellent. The staff, management and other patients all made my sister's experience a positive one, despite the challenges of her illness. I can only highly commend your facility.
Thank you for your review for Watlington, especially written at such a difficult time. The team will be so proud to read your positive words and personal recommendations.
My husband has been a resident at Watlington and District Nursing Home since November 2023. He has been looked after by wonderfully kind and caring staff, they manage difficult behaviour with patience and genuine kindness. The food is much appreciated by my husband, especially the afternoon cake!...
My husband has been a resident at Watlington and District Nursing Home since November 2023. He has been looked after by wonderfully kind and caring staff, they manage difficult behaviour with patience and genuine kindness. The food is much appreciated by my husband, especially the afternoon cake! The gardens are lovely, sitting with my husband in the sunshine is a real pleasure. Overall the nursing home is a safe and caring place for my husband.
Thank you for your five-star review of Watlington, we are delighted to hear how happy you are with your husband's care. The team are certainly outstanding and the home is in a beautiful setting with glorious gardens to enjoy.
I spent one-week having respite care after an operation. This care home is five-star in every aspect. All members of staff are smiley, friendly and totally professional. I would recommend this care home to anyone needing respite or longer-term care.
I spent one-week having respite care after an operation. This care home is five-star in every aspect. All members of staff are smiley, friendly and totally professional. I would recommend this care home to anyone needing respite or longer-term care.
Thank you for your review of Watlington, we are delighted to hear you were so happy with your stay and welcome you back if you ever need respite or any type of care or support in the future.
My mother was in Watlington for almost 5 weeks the care was amazing the kindness and love they showed her made life easier for the family, but also the kindness they showed us was lovely nothing was too much trouble kept us informed about everything even when she passed away they were super can't...
My mother was in Watlington for almost 5 weeks the care was amazing the kindness and love they showed her made life easier for the family, but also the kindness they showed us was lovely nothing was too much trouble kept us informed about everything even when she passed away they were super can't thank them enough very special home.
Thank you for your review, especially written at such a difficult time. The team are certainly very special and we are so pleased they could be there to support you, they will be touched to read your comments.
Excellent in all respects. Pleasant and caring. Atmosphere was peaceful and homely. I have rated food and drink and activities as excellent, although the resident was not well enough to benefit from this. Everything looked perfect though. Most grateful for everything. Many thanks.
Excellent in all respects. Pleasant and caring. Atmosphere was peaceful and homely. I have rated food and drink and activities as excellent, although the resident was not well enough to benefit from this. Everything looked perfect though. Most grateful for everything. Many thanks.
Thank you for your review of Watlington, the team will be proud to read your kind words.
I was very impressed, particularly with the nursing staff and other staff in general. I confidently recommend care in Watlington.
I was very impressed, particularly with the nursing staff and other staff in general. I confidently recommend care in Watlington.
Thank you for your five-star review of Watlington, the team will be delighted to read your comments.
Regulatory Rating
Care Quality Commission (CQC) Rating
Date: 19 April 2019Outstanding
- CaringGood
- EffectiveGood
- ResponsiveOutstanding
- SafeGood
- Well-ledOutstanding
Inspection ratings
We rate most services according to how safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led they are, using four levels:
- Outstanding - The service is performing exceptionally well.
- Good - The service is performing well and meeting our expectations.
- Requires Improvement - The service isn't performing as well as it should and we have told the service how it must improve.
- Inadequate - The service is performing badly and we've taken action against the person or organisation that runs it.
- Not rated - we have not yet rated this area of the service, this is normally because the assessments we have carried out have been focused on other key questions.
Bed Vacancies
Please contact us for latest vacancies.
News (4) & Events (0)
- 27 Jul 2026
We're incredibly proud to share that we've been recognised in the Lottie Awards 2026, receiving not one but two outstanding accolades: Top 100 Care Home Top 10 for Outdoor Space...
- 21 Apr 2026
93-year-old resident at Sanctuary Care’s Watlington & District Residential and Nursing Home has joyfully celebrated a milestone in his faith, proving that you can achieve your dreams at any age....
- 03 Feb 2026
It was the red-carpet treatment for our team at Watlington in Oxfordshire, recently, when they scooped victory at the prestigious Caring UK Awards 2025. Watlington and District Residential and Nursing...
There are no upcoming events for Watlington & District Residential and Nursing Home.
Awards / Recognitions (10)
- 21 Jul 2026Recipient: Sanctuary Care Ltd
- 30 Jan 2026Recipient: Sanctuary Care Ltd
- 31 Jan 2025Recipient: Sanctuary Care Ltd
Accreditations
There are no accreditations posted yet for Watlington & District Residential and Nursing Home.
Meet the Team (7)

Julie has worked at Watlington and District Nursing Home for nearly two decades, proudly leading her devoted team to their CQC 'Outstanding' rating...
Julie has worked at Watlington and District Nursing Home for nearly two decades, proudly leading her devoted team to their CQC 'Outstanding' rating in 2019.
Julie has a very loyal and long-serving team, who are passionate about enriching the lives of their residents each and every day.

Samantha has been working as a care assistant since 2020 and loves making her residents smile.

After working with us at Watlington since 2022, it now feels like home for our registered nurse Quenie.

Leila loves helping people and has been our administrator for over a decade at Watlington.

Maggie has nearly worked at Watlington for an amazing 20 years and loves the family feel to the home.

Hassa has worked with us since 2022 and really enjoys caring for our residents. She says Watlington is a lovely home to work and live in.

Marion has also worked at Watlington for nearly two decades. She says Watlington is such a happy place to be, and her residents and fellow colleagues are just the best.
Information on this page is displayed without responsibility for its accuracy on the part of carehome.co.uk. Please contact Watlington & District Residential and Nursing Home to verify any information. View our terms and conditions. Watlington & District Residential and Nursing Home has an Enhanced Service -what an Enhanced Service includes.